Florist's Guide: How to Make Flowers Last Longer During Delivery

Ensuring that flowers retain their beauty and freshness during delivery requires careful handling and preparation. Here are key steps to enhance the longevity of your floral arrangements.

1. Choose Fresh Flowers

Begin with the freshest flowers. Select blooms that are at the bud stage rather than fully open. This ensures they have a longer lifespan once delivered.

2. Prepare Your Materials

Gather the necessary supplies:

  • Clean water

  • Flower food

  • Sharp scissors or a knife

  • Packaging materials (bubble wrap, cool box, insulated containers)

3. Cut Stems Properly

Before placing the flowers in water, cut each stem at a 45-degree angle. This increases the surface area for water absorption, helping them stay hydrated.

4. Hydrate Immediately

Place the cut flowers in a clean bucket of water mixed with flower food immediately after trimming. Allow them to hydrate for at least one hour before arranging and packaging.

5. Assemble and Secure

When creating arrangements, ensure that no leaves are submerged in the water, as this can lead to bacterial growth. After arranging, secure the stems with floral tape or ties to minimise movement during transit.

6. Use Proper Packaging

  • Water Source: For longer deliveries, consider using water tubes for the individual stems or placing the arrangement in a container with water.

  • Temperature Control: Use insulated boxes to maintain a stable temperature. Keep flowers away from direct sunlight or heat sources during transit.

  • Stability: Use bubble wrap or newspaper to cushion the flowers and prevent damage. Ensure the arrangement is secured and cannot move around freely.

7. Communication

Clearly label the package with special handling instructions, such as “Fragile” or “Keep Upright,” to ensure that the courier maintains the necessary care during delivery.

8. Timing is Key

Schedule deliveries for cooler parts of the day if possible and aim for peak freshness by arranging flowers as close to the delivery time as possible.

9. Inform Recipients

Provide recipients with care instructions upon delivery. Advise them to trim the stems again and place the flowers in fresh water immediately, ideally mixed with the provided flower food.

By following these guidelines, you can increase the chances that your floral arrangements arrive at their destination looking as fresh and vibrant as when they were created.

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